Margate Man Accused Of Luring Young Girl Into His SUV

FT LAUDERDALE (CBSMiami) – A North Lauderdale man was taken into custody after he reportedly picked up a Margate girl on her way to school.

Jose Laurence, 58, was arrested Monday. He’s been charged with luring/enticing a child under the age of 12 and battery.

The incident happened Friday, April 29th, in the 6600 block of Southgate Boulevard.

Around 7 a.m. Laurence pulled up beside the girl and reportedly offered her a ride to school. The girl, who confused Laurence for a family member, got in his SUV. She soon realized she had made a mistake.

While driving, Laurence asked the girl if she wanted to go to his place, according to police.

She said no.

A short time later her dropped her off near her school. Just before she got out, Laurence gave her a hug.

Margate police the girl was not harmed during the time she was in the vehicle.